Impacts of Edge Effects on Wildlife Populations in Kenyan Reserves

2 years ago by Onyari Nyakundi. PhD

Introduction:

An edge can be defined as the junction of two different landscape elements (e.g., plant community type, successional stage, or land use). This junction is either a well-defined boundary or a transition zone (ecotone) where plant and associated wildlife communities grade into one another. Edge effect thus refers to the changes in the environment and the corresponding changes in the behavior, ecology, and population dynamics of organisms that occur at the boundary between two different habitats. Human activities, such as deforestation, urbanization, and pollution, have significant impacts on wildlife populations. These activities can destroy natural habitats, fragment landscapes, and contaminate food and water sources, all of which can harm and even eliminate entire species of wildlife. In this proposal, we will discuss the various ways in which human activities affect wildlife populations and outline some potential solutions for mitigating these impacts. Reasonably, wildlife population decline is a function of the extensive changes in land use, habitat loss and fragmentation and climate impacts. The causes of the decline in wildlife populations are multiple, including increasing human population density. Human activities have had an effect on wildlife populations across all range states. The main causes of decline are land-use change and fragmentation, loss of habitat due to agricultural expansion and human settlement, fencing practices that prevent movement between protected areas, invasive species such as domestic animals or crop pests spreading through livestock movement. Population dynamics of individual species depend on several factors such as habitat suitability and available food. However, according to estimation by IPCC AR4 report, livestock population control is necessary in order to ensure a sustainable utilization of agricultural lands and maintenance of wildlife habitat. Human activities are adversely affecting the wildlife population and its environment. The study aims to identify the causes of the problem and provide solutions by implementing conservation measures, training of resource users and educational programs. A comprehensive analysis of these human activities would result in effective management of resources, especially for conservation of endangered species.

Background:

Deforestation is one of the major human activities that can have a profound impact on wildlife populations. The destruction of forests destroys the natural habitats of many species of animals, forcing them to compete for limited resources or to move to new areas. This can lead to population declines and even extinction for some species. Urbanization is another major human activity that can harm wildlife populations. As cities expand, open spaces are lost and habitats become fragmented, making it more difficult for animals to move and mate. This can lead to a decrease in the size and health of wildlife populations. Pollution, both from industrial sources and from the use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture, can also harm wildlife populations. Contaminated food and water sources can cause illness and death among wildlife, leading to population declines. The impact of human activities on wildlife is an issue of concern and importance, particularly in view of the fact that they are the most threatened species in the world. In most of the instances, climate change has been an extraneous factor that acts as a threat multiplier to the survival of wildlife in their habitat. Wildlife populations are declining in many regions of the world due to the impact of land use and other human activities. In order to effectively manage and conserve wildlife populations, it is necessary to understand their causes. The impacts of livestock grazing on vegetation, particularly open grasslands, may contribute substantially to this decline. The warming effect on vegetation growth rate is the result of the shading effect of vegetation on the plant canopy by transpiration from leaves reduces evapotranspiration. This decline in local climatic conditions can be reversed once livestock management is changed such as limited grazing and/or fencing off of pasture lands with aspen stands are established Livestock grazing has long been recognized to be an important ecological influence in many ecosystems worldwide. This population study addressed the question of whether a pattern of livestock grazing affects wildlife populations in the long term. It was found that a pattern of cattle grazing on native vegetation is not detrimental for some species but can cause damage to other species if livestock stocking levels are high. The population study showed that introduced species were not affected adversely but did point out the need to consider disturbance caused by farming practices on wildlife populations everywhere In India, the demands of agricultural development and urban expansion have resulted in significant habitat fragmentation, often leading to loss of connectivity between habitat patches. This can result in reduced gene flow and genetic homogenization. Such reductions in biodiversity can have a major impact on ecosystem processes such as nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, water and nutrient retention and riverine ecosystem functioning. Together with anthropogenic disturbances like fire, herbivory disturbances and ungulate grazing, these anthropogenic impacts lead to widespread alterations in biodiversity and functions across terrestrial regions of India.

Objectives

General objectives

The general objective of this study is to identify the factors that contribute to edge effects, develop and evaluate conservation and management strategies, provide scientific evidence to inform decision-making, and promote public awareness and understanding of the need for sustainable human activities.

Specific objectives

1. To identify the factors that contributes to edge effects, such as the type and intensity of human activities, the type and size of wildlife populations, and the physical characteristics of the habitat.
2. To understand how human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change impact the distribution and abundance of wildlife species.
3. To develop and evaluate conservation and management strategies that can mitigate the negative effects of human activities on wildlife populations.

Materials and Methods

The impacts of the edge effects will be conducted in two sites in Kajiado County; Maasai mara national reserve and ranch (Control). We will conduct a systematic study in which the edges of both the ranch and the reserve will be sampled and compared. Four transects of 50x500m will be delineated along the edges for study in each of the sites. In each transect, 5 plots of 50x100m will be divided and the species abundance assessed. The distribution of species in each of the plots will be observed. For avian communities, species distribution along the edge will be assessed by comparing the distribution of nests and territories, or the incidences of nest predation and parasitism relative to distances from edge.

Proposed Solutions:

To address the impacts of human activities on wildlife populations, we need to take a multi-faceted approach that focuses on protecting natural habitats, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable land use practices. Some potential solutions include: Implementing policies and regulations that protect forests and other natural habitats from destruction. This can include setting aside protected areas and establishing regulations on land use practices. Investing in renewable energy sources and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. This can help to reduce the amount of pollution produced by industrial activities, which can harm wildlife populations. This can help to reduce the contamination of food and water sources for wildlife. Promoting public awareness and enhancing education about the impacts of human activities on wildlife populations. This can help to increase support for conservation efforts and encourage individuals to take action to protect wildlife.

Conclusion:

Human activities have significant impacts on wildlife populations, and we need to take action to protect these species. By implementing policies and regulations that protect natural habitats, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable land use practices, we can help to ensure the survival and thriving of wildlife populations.